Dive into a world of flavor with our tantalizing Cold Noodle Pork Bowls, drizzled with a luscious almond sesame date sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing! This Asian-inspired dish combines succulent pork tenderloin with perfectly cooked soba noodles, fresh cucumber, and a rich sauce that’s both creamy and sweet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal prep option, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrition. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a vibrant bowl of goodness that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 8 oz soba noodles
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 dates, pitted and chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork tenderloin. Pat the meat dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Slice the tenderloin into thin, even medallions approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and sear the pork medallions for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Cook the soba noodles in boiling salted water according to package instructions, typically 4-5 minutes. Drain and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- For the almond sesame date sauce, combine almond butter, remaining sesame oil, chopped dates, soy sauce, and 2-3 tablespoons of warm water in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting consistency with water if needed.
- Slice the cucumber into thin half-moons or matchsticks for added texture and freshness.
- Assemble the bowls by dividing soba noodles evenly. Top with sliced pork medallions, cucumber, and drizzle generously with the almond sesame date sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped scallions and serve chilled or at room temperature. Optional: add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can marinate the pork tenderloin a few hours in advance with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Soba noodles cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Rinse them under cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust the Sauce: The almond sesame date sauce can be customized to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more chopped dates; for a saltier kick, increase the soy sauce.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh scallions add a nice crunch and flavor, but feel free to get creative with your garnishes! Consider adding toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Serve Cold or Room Temperature: This dish is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge or served at room temperature, making it a perfect option for meal prep or potlucks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
